At the heart of the 2004 Harley-Davidson XL 883 Sportster custom - cruiser motorcycle, Harley-Davidson features a 883 cc (53.9 cu in) air-cooled v2, four-stroke configuration. In factory specification, peak output is rated at 53 HP (38.7 kW) at 6,000 rpm while maximum torque reaches 69 Nm (50.9 lb-ft) at 4,200 rpm, transferring power to the rear wheel through a 5-speed gearbox and belt final drive. With a specific output of 60 HP per liter and a 1,800 rpm working window between peak torque (4,200 rpm) and peak power (6,000 rpm), the engine character is indicating a tractable, stress-free state of tune focused on everyday usability and broad torque delivery.
On the scales, the XL 883 Sportster measures 263 kg (580 lbs) wet (curb), translating to a power-to-weight ratio of 0.2 HP/kg (4.96 kg per horsepower). Rider ergonomics and chassis geometry center around a 693 mm (27.3 in) seat height — giving shorter riders and urban commuters confident flat-foot reach at traffic stops, combined with a 1,520 mm (59.8 in) wheelbase engineered for balanced agility and highway composure. The 12.9-liter (3.4 US gal) fuel tank supports practical everyday commuting and weekend road stints.
Within MotoLibrary's Harley-Davidson archive, this model family spans 2 indexed model years from 2004 to 2005, allowing buyers to track year-over-year changes in emissions tuning, weight and equipment.
Specific Output
60 HP/L
Power-to-Weight
0.2 HP/kg (4.96 kg/HP)
Power Band Window
4,200–6,000 rpm
Standover Height
693 mm (27.3 in)
Engine
Displacement883.0 ccm (53.88 cubic inches)
Engine TypeV2, four-stroke
Engine DetailsV2, four-stroke
Power53.0 HP (38.7 kW)) @ 6000 RPM
Torque69.0 Nm (7.0 kgf-m or 50.9 ft.lbs) @ 4200 RPM
Compression9.0:1
Bore x Stroke76.2 x 96.8 mm (3.0 x 3.8 inches)
Valves/Cylinder2
Fuel SystemCarburettor
Fuel ControlOverhead Valves (OHV)
IgnitionDigital CDI
CoolingAir
Transmission
Gearbox5-speed
Final DriveBelt (final drive)
ClutchMulti-plate clutch with diaphragm spring in oil bath
Chassis
Rake29.6°
Trail117 mm (4.6 inches)
Front Suspension39mm Conventional cartridge forks
Rear SuspensionDual shocks coil over, adjustable
Wheelbase1520 mm (59.8 inches)
Ground Clearance141 mm (5.6 inches)
Wheels & Brakes
Front Tyre100/90-19
Rear Tyre150/80-B16
Front BrakesSingle disc. Two-piston calipers.
Front Brake Ø292 mm (11.5 inches)
Rear BrakesSingle disc. Single-piston caliper.
Rear Brake Ø292 mm (11.5 inches)
Dimensions & Weight
Dry Weight251.0 kg (553.4 pounds)
Weight incl.263.0 kg (579.8 pounds)
Power/Weight0.2110 HP/kg
Seat Height693 mm (27.3 inches) If adjustable, lowest setting.
Overall Length2260 mm (89.0 inches)
Fuel Capacity12.90 litres (3.41 US gallons)
Reserve Fuel12.90 litres (3.41 gallons)
Oil Capacity2.80 litres (2.96 US quarts)
Other
StarterElectric
Color OptionsVivid black, Brilliant silver, Sierra red, Impact blue
Notes
Silver powder-coated engine with polished covers; significantly reduced clutch lever effort; classic solo seat; mid-mount foot controls; low-rise handlebar
Use this page to compare this motorcycle by its real specifications, not only by model name. Focus on the details that affect fit, comfort, handling, range and ownership.
Power
Compare engine output with similar motorcycles if acceleration, highway use or two-up riding matters.
Torque
Torque is useful for judging real-world pull, especially for touring, commuting and loaded riding.
Seat Height
Check the seat height against your inseam and riding posture before choosing a motorcycle.
Weight
Compare weight carefully because it affects low-speed handling, parking and confidence.
Fuel Capacity
Fuel capacity helps estimate touring range and how often you may need to stop.
Brakes
Brake setup is worth comparing if you ride in traffic, mountains or with a passenger.
Suspension
Suspension details can matter for comfort, road feel and long-distance riding.
Transmission
Transmission and final drive affect maintenance, smoothness and everyday usability.
